Italy is a land of timeless beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture, and there’s no better way to experience its charm than embarking on an 11-day journey through Rome and Southern Italy. The best way to do so is at your own pace and by car. From ancient ruins to stunning coastal vistas, this itinerary promises a blend of relaxation, exploration, and indulgence. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or someone seeking picturesque landscapes, this trip has something for everyone.
Before diving into the specifics of the itinerary, let’s cover some practical tips to ensure your trip goes smoothly:
Before You Start Your Trip
- Notes on cars: Renting a car is essential for exploring Southern Italy at your own pace. While public transportation is reliable in Rome, the countryside and coastal towns are best navigated by car. Opt for a compact vehicle to tackle narrow streets and avoid hefty fuel costs.
- Historical areas: Many historical sites in Italy require advance booking. Purchase tickets for popular attractions like the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Vatican Museum well ahead of time to skip the queues and secure your spot.
- Avoiding tickets: The dreaded ZTL zone or zona traffic limitato. These zones are designed to protect the older, harder-to-navigate parts of cities from congestion. They actually are a good idea, but if you are not careful, entering one without permission will result in an automatic ticket from their cameras at every entrance.
Rome
Begin your journey in Rome, the eternal city, where history comes alive at every corner.
Visiting the Colosseum and Roman Forum
Start your day with a visit to the majestic Colosseum, a testament to ancient Roman engineering and gladiatorial history. I recommend taking the underground guided tour for an intimate look into what the gladiators’ experience was.
From there, stroll through the Roman Forum, immersing yourself in the remains of temples and marketplaces that once formed the heart of Roman life. This is one of those places where you can easily imagine what life was like back all those years ago because so much is still intact.
From there, head north, stopping by the fabulous Monumento a Vittorio Emanuele II and the Pantheon. Complete your walk at Piazza Navona, a vibrant square adorned with Baroque fountains and lively cafes. I highly recommend getting out early before things get crowded.
Exploring the Vatican
No trip to Rome is complete without visiting the Vatican. Book a guided tour to gain insight into the treasures of the Vatican Museum, including Michelangelo’s awe-inspiring Sistine Chapel ceiling. St. Peter’s Basilica, with its grandeur and spiritual significance, is a must-see.
The Sistine Chapel is one of those places where your mind has a hard time wrapping its head around how one person could paint such a marvel. Whatever you do, don’t rush here. Take your time looking at all the details and Michelangelo’s masterful use of light.
Bari
Next, head south to Bari, a charming coastal city rich in history and culture. Take time to explore the old town, Bari Vecchia, with its labyrinthine streets and medieval architecture. Don’t miss the Basilica di San Nicola, an iconic church that attracts pilgrims from around the world.
Polignano a Mare
Polignano a Mare, known for its dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear waters, is a feast for the senses. With half as many tourists as the West Coast, take your time truly enjoying the history and charm of this town.
Dining at Grotta Palazzese Hotel
Treat yourself to an unforgettable dining experience at Grotta Palazzese, a restaurant located inside a sea grotto. Enjoy exquisite Italian cuisine while soaking in breathtaking views of the Adriatic. Afterward, wander through the town’s charming streets and soak in the coastal vibes.
Drive to Alberobello down to the heel of Southern Italy
Just a 45-minute drive from Polignano a Mare lies Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its trulli houses.
Exploring Alberobello
Park outside the town and stroll through its enchanting streets filled with these unique cone-shaped structures. While touristy, Alberobello retains its charm and is a fascinating place to explore and photograph.
Ostuni, the “White City”
Known for its whitewashed buildings and panoramic views, Ostuni is the perfect lunch stop. Here, I began to really notice and love photographing the old Italian Doors throughout the city.
Where to Eat
Grab a table at a terrace restaurant overlooking the ocean, sip on an Aperol spritz, and savor local dishes. It’s a quintessential Italian experience that combines relaxation with culinary delight.
Otranto
Journey further south to the fortified town of Otranto, a gem on the Adriatic coast. The waters are clear and turquoise like the Caribbean.
Where to Stay
Opt for accommodation within the castle walls, where history and charm surround you at every turn. Be prepared to carry your bags from the parking areas, but the experience is worth the effort. Wander the cobbled streets and discover the Cathedral of Otranto, known for its stunning mosaic floor.
Matera
After your stay in Otranto, I would recommend stopping in the city of Matera on your way west towards the mountains. This picturesque town has been used in movies such as James Bond, but the real catch is that it is actually one of the oldest cities in the world. Matera’s history dates back to the 8th millennium BC. Rocky cliffside caves scattered on the valley walls are some of the oldest dwellings in the world.
Pietrapertosa is an absolute gem of Southern Italy
Forgotten Times – Limited Edition Fine Art Print of 6 – Derek Nielsen Photography
Nestled in the mountains, Pietrapertosa is a delightful stop en route to the Amalfi Coast. There is something so charming about this place as if it were lost in time.
Why Visit Pietrapertosa
This small town boasts breathtaking views, warm hospitality, and delectable cuisine. It’s the perfect place to recharge while enjoying the serene beauty of Italy’s rugged landscape. Enjoy human-free hiking in the region for those who crave the outdoors. For those brave for an adventure, a zip line runs from Pietrapertosa to the neighboring town of Castelmezzano
Amalfi Coast and Positano
Positano Breeze – Limited Edition Fine Art Print Of 6 – Derek Nielsen Photography
Few places capture the imagination like the Amalfi Coast, and Positano is one of its crown jewels.
Exploring Positano
Positano’s colorful cliffside houses and pristine beaches are postcard-perfect. Leave your car at a parking garage and explore on foot or via boat rides to neighboring towns like Amalfi and Ravello. While crowded, the scenery and atmosphere make Positano an unforgettable experience.
If you are like me and get overwhelmed by the crowds, stay at one of the hotels near the beach. In the early mornings and late evenings, I found myself able to wander the town with few people. Staying near the water also has one major advantage. After walking around town, you have a downhill walk back to your hotel instead of a steep climb up. When you have tired legs, you will thank me for this tip.
Sorrento
Sorrento is another coastal gem that’s well worth a visit. Lemons are abundant, popular, and delicious.
Highlights of Sorrento
Renowned for its pizza, Sorrento offers some of the best slices in all of Italy. It’s also a great base for day trips to Capri and Pompeii. Wander its lively streets and enjoy panoramic views of the Bay of Naples.
As strange as it sounds, I really enjoyed a lemon sauce pizza with shrimp at Pizzeria Aurora.
Take a cooking class here. I recommend one of the longer ones to get more than just an Instagram selfie. Experience the true cooking culture of Italy. There is something so genuine about sharing a meal with strangers. We laughed, drank wine, cooked great food and ate like royalty.
Capri
Per my mother’s recommendation, and she was right, the Island of Capri is uniquely beautiful. If possible, arrive on an early ferry, take a convertible taxi to Anacapri, and take the chairlift to the top before the crowds. The views from above are incredible down the Amalfi coast, over the Bay of Naples, and out to sea.
Rome (Return)
Conclude your journey back in Rome to revisit its wonders at a leisurely pace. Take time to explore sights you may have rushed through on your first visit. Whether marveling at the intricate details of ancient ruins or savoring gelato at a local café, Rome’s charm deepens with every moment.
The morning of my flight I made a point to visit the Trevi Fountain near sunrise. This is one of the most crowded places in all of Rome during the day. Its tight streets make navigating the stunningly beautiful fountain a nightmare. However, if you get up early, the effort will be rewarded. The fountain is popular for a reason. It’s flat out beautiful.
The Southern Italy Road Trip you won’t forget.
An 11-day trip through Rome and Southern Italy is a journey of discovery, relaxation, and inspiration. From bustling cities to tranquil coastal towns, each destination offers its own unique allure. Embrace the Italian way of life, indulge in its culinary treasures, and let its history and landscapes create memories that will last a lifetime.
Hello! I'm Derek.
DEREK NIELSEN PHOTOGRAPHY RAISES AWARENESS ABOUT THE GLOBAL NEED FOR CONSERVATION THROUGH PHOTOGRAPHY AND DONATES UP TO 15% OF ALL SALES BACK TO ENVIRONMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS AROUND THE WORLD.